Chinese scientists from Wuhan University found a link between exposure of pregnant mice to caffeine along with a high-fat diet and their offspring being born with autistic behavior. The study was published in the scientific journal magazine Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety (EES).
Experts have found that the increased risk of being born to rodents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is linked to changes in gut bacteria and increased levels of the specific immune molecule IL-17A.
In the study, pregnant rats were divided into two groups: one exposed to caffeine during the critical period of pregnancy and the other control group receiving a placebo.
After birth, pups were further categorized based on their diet; They received either a standard diet or a high-fat diet from the 4th week after birth.
Experiments showed that male babies exhibited typical ASD behavior after prenatal exposure to caffeine, while girls showed decreased exploratory ability and spatial memory.
The analysis revealed damage to the intestinal mucosal barrier and significant changes in the intestinal microbiota, specifically an increase in the abundance of Escherichia coli (E. coli). Microbial change was associated with the induction of differentiation of colonic Th17 cells, leading to increased levels of IL-17A.
Scientists found that this cytokine, known for its role in inflammation, enters the brain and causes synaptic damage in hippocampal neurons; This is a process that researchers have identified as a key factor in the development of ASD.
Previous scientists named Drugs that increase the risk of autism in newborns.